Barrett has previously been linked to the head coaching positions at the North Queensland Cowboys and Wests Tigers, but Fairfax Media reports that the former Test representative is edging close to a move to the Sea Eagles to become an assistant under Geoff Toovey.

The 37-year-old is believed to be highly-rated at the Panthers and was promoted from Holden Cup coach to a first-grade assistant role underneath Ivan Cleary.

While the Panthers are unlikely to let Barrett go easily, the report suggests the former St George Illawarra and Cronulla Sharks five-eighth has been in negotiations with the Sea Eagles for two months and could make the switch as early as June.

Barrett enjoyed a stellar playing career, playing 295 senior games in both the NRL and English Super League, scoring 108 tries.